What's happened
Liridon Kastrati, 32, was sentenced to 10 years after attempting to murder PC Gary Cowan with a chainsaw in Paisley in May 2024. The incident, described as like a horror film, involved Kastrati chasing the officer with the power tool after crashing into a police vehicle. Kastrati was convicted of attempted murder and reacted violently after sentencing, shouting at the judge and calling him a terrorist.
What's behind the headline?
The case underscores the extreme risks law enforcement officers face during routine duties. The use of a chainsaw as a weapon is unprecedented in Scottish criminal history, illustrating a disturbing escalation in violence. The incident's timing, just over a year after the event, and Kastrati's reaction—shouting insults and calling the judge a terrorist—highlight ongoing issues around immigration, mental health, and criminal behavior. The judge's comparison to horror film scenarios emphasizes the surreal and terrifying nature of the attack, which could have had catastrophic consequences. This case may influence future police training and public safety policies, emphasizing the need for rapid response to unpredictable threats. The sentencing sends a clear message that such violent acts will be met with severe punishment, but it also raises questions about preventative measures for individuals with potential for impulsive violence.
What the papers say
The Scotsman and Sky News provide detailed accounts of the incident, emphasizing the horror film-like nature of the attack and the legal proceedings. The Scotsman highlights Kastrati's outburst post-sentencing, calling the judge a terrorist, and notes the judge's remark on the rarity of chainsaw weapons in Scotland. Sky News focuses on the police officer's fear during the attack and the incident's violent, unpredictable nature. Both sources agree on the severity of the crime and the high-profile nature of the case, though The Scotsman offers more insight into Kastrati's reaction and the broader implications for police safety.
How we got here
The attack occurred after Kastrati's car crashed into a police vehicle in Paisley. He initially fled the scene, then returned to retrieve a chainsaw from his car, which he used to chase PC Cowan while revving the engine and shouting abuse. CCTV footage captured much of the incident, which was deemed highly dangerous and could have resulted in severe harm or death. Kastrati, an Albanian national, was convicted of attempted murder in November 2025, with the incident highlighting the unpredictable and violent nature of some criminal acts faced by police.
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